Course Content Week By Week
Introduction to the Bradley Method®, and to each other
History, philosophy and goals of the Bradley Method® of Natural Childbirth. Ways to stay healthy and low risk, important pregnancy exercises.
Nutrition in Pregnancy
Which nutrients are important, in what quantities; Exercise review; discussion of sex during pregnancy; breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Discomforts, and how to handle them
Anatomy and physiology; common discomforts and how to handle them naturally; Choices faced during labor and birth
The Coach's Role
Coaching during pregnancy; importance of natural childbirth; bonding; father's role in breastfeeding; drugs, myths, and birthing
Introduction to First stage labor
Anatomy & physiology of 1st stage; built-in safeguards for mom & baby; basic coaching techniques, standard hospital procedures
Introduction to 2nd stage labor
Anatomy & Physiology of 2nd stage labor, stressing respect for natural process; basic pushing techniques and positions
Planning your birth
Consumer information; how to make a birth plan; what your choices and priorities are; First stage labor rehearsal
Variations and Complications/ Postpartum preparation
Various complications and how to avoid them, including Cesarean delivery; evaluating when intervention is necessary, handling these necessary interventions
Advanced 1st stage techniques
Advanced coaching techniques; dealing with 1st stage labor; Labor rehearsal; First stage study guide
Advanced 2nd stage techniques
Advanced labor rehearsal; Second stage study guide. Being sure you are well-prepared
Being a great coach/Are you ready?
Comprehensive review; Handling coaching challenges; Emergency childbirth; "What is labor?"
Preparing for your new family
Advanced labor rehearsal; Your labor and birth; Newborn care; mothering; fathering; breastfeeding